Passport Prices in Ohio Set to Increase in 2022
Travel enthusiasts in Ohio will have to dig a little deeper into their wallets if they plan to apply for a passport in 2022, as prices are set to increase across the board. The U.S. Department of State announced the new passport fees earlier this month, citing the need for additional resources to process the high volume of applications and maintain security measures.
Starting on January 1, 2022, the cost of a standard adult passport book will rise from $110 to $165, while the price of a passport card will increase from $30 to $65. The cost of a passport book and card bundle will also go up from $140 to $200. Children under the age of 16 will see a slight increase in fees as well, with the cost of a passport book rising from $80 to $135 and the price of a passport card increasing from $15 to $50.
The price hikes come as the State Department grapples with a backlog of passport applications due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The agency has been working to reduce the backlog by hiring additional staff and increasing processing capacity, but the surge in demand for passports as international travel resumes has put a strain on resources.
“Due to the unprecedented demand for passports and the need to maintain security measures, we have made the difficult decision to raise passport fees,” said Secretary of State Antony Blinken. “We understand that this will be a burden for some applicants, but it is necessary to ensure the integrity of the passport system and provide efficient service to all travelers.”
Despite the price increase, officials are urging travelers to apply for or renew their passports as soon as possible to avoid any delays in processing. The State Department recommends applying for a passport at least six months before planned travel to allow for ample processing time.
In addition to the fee hikes, the State Department is also implementing new security measures for passport applications. Starting next year, all applicants will be required to submit a photo with a plain white or off-white background, and the agency will no longer accept photos with digitally altered backgrounds. This change is aimed at improving the accuracy and security of passport photos to prevent fraud and identity theft.
While the price increases may come as a surprise to some travelers, many Ohio residents are willing to pay the extra cost for the convenience and peace of mind that comes with having a valid passport.
“I understand the need for increased fees, especially given the current state of the world,” said Sarah Johnson, a frequent traveler from Columbus. “Having a passport is essential for me, so I don’t mind paying a little more to ensure that I can continue exploring the world safely.”
Overall, the increase in passport fees reflects the growing demand for travel as countries begin to reopen their borders and lift COVID-19 restrictions. While the cost may be a burden for some, most travelers agree that having a valid passport is a worthwhile investment in their ability to explore new destinations and create lasting memories.
As passport prices in Ohio and across the country continue to rise, travelers are encouraged to stay informed of any changes to the application process and plan ahead to avoid any unnecessary delays. With proper preparation and attention to detail, obtaining a passport can be a seamless and rewarding experience for those eager to embark on new adventures in 2022 and beyond.
